"I had a lot of offers, but Embry-Riddle was the best academically. And they are very good in baseball."

ERAU was a big rival of Flagler College when they both played in the Florida Sun Conference (NAIA).

The Eagles have been picked to win the conference this season and are coming off a campaign that went all the way to the NAIA national tournament.

Romero has been a college prospect in large part because of his defensive prowess. Most area coaches consider him to be the top defensive shortstop in the county. Last year, he also hit .385 with eight doubles.

Now, he'll try to top those numbers as a senior without having to worry about impressing any college coaches.

"It's the best thing," Menendez coach Lee Geiger said of the early signing. "It takes the pressure off him. Now he can just play and enjoy."

Romero and his younger brother Avery make up the Falcons' double play combination with Avery playing second base.

"I'm really happy to play one more year with him," Jordan said. "I'm definitely looking forward to this year."